Support Group Meeting for Gay Fathers

Feel alone? Isolated? Uncertain about the word gay? Newcomers often feel alone, like an outsider, or not certain if the Gay Fathers is the right place for them. Maybe this is your first contact with the 'gay community'. We've all been there. No one needs to remain alone.

That first meeting is a big step. The future may seem uncertain, stressful, scary, even spinning out of control. Yet, that first step may also hold the hope of a revitalized future, of personal growth, of hoped-for love, and of a new-found self-confidence. It may also mean family adjustments.

We won't advise. We will share our experiences, listen to yours, and support you in the path that suits you and your situation. We demand only a mutual respect for the differences and similarities of every man's situation and experience, his personal boundaries and privacy

Tonight's Topic:Do You Speak Gay?

BDSM, top. /bottom, watersports, pitcher/catcher, cbt, master/slave, puppy, daddy/boy, cut/uncut, ftm, mtf, casual sex, anonymous sex, BJ, pig, bear, chicken… Sometimes coming out feels like immigrating to a foreign country with an unfamiliar language. LGBTTIQQ2S, queer, faggot, bisexual, asexual, poofter, transgender, transsexual, trannie, two spirit - what is acceptable and which one(s) are offensive? The meanings of potato queen, rice queen, sticky rice may be humourous when heard the first time, so why do others consider them offensive? Oriental or Asian, does it matter? TNT, CLGA, DP2B, Dykes Planning Tykes, Out & Out, MCC, Triangle Squares, CTYS... some of the organizations and institutions that define the larger gay community. Coming out usually means becoming part of that community. Tonight's discussion explores the language of gay.

Discussion Facilitator:Paul C *Second Facilitator:John J

*When two or more facilitators are usually present, the Second Facilitator will be happy to talk privately if you prefer.*

Getting there:

General:

Gay Fathers of Toronto is operated by and for gay dads. All fathers, step-fathers, their same-sex partners, and all gay/bi men in a fathering role are welcome at a GFT meeting. It is an independent, peer support group that is run and governed by gay fathers. It has no political, corporate, or religious affiliation and receives no outside financial assistance. We ask each person to contribute $5 per meeting to cover website and other incidental expenses.

At your first meeting, though, you are our guest. If $5 is a financial burden or is the reason for staying away, please contact a Facilitator in person or email a private message to the lead Facilitator (info@gayfathers-toronto.com). We are here to support, not to inhibit or embarrass.

What happens at support meetings?

Meeting leaders are trained to facilitate discussions at support meetings; they are not professional life coaches, marriage counsellors, or psychologists.We talk about our own experience. We do not advise or challenge.

Predatory or intimidating behaviour will not be tolerated. Gay Fathers of Toronto has a Code of Mutual Respect. Ask a Facilitator to browse a copy of it if you want more information about it. Talk to a Facilitator or email us confidentially (info@gayfathers-toronto.com) about anything that offends or concerns you.

Location The 519 Church Street Community Centre, Room 304

Check The 519 Front Desk Notice Board on the scheduled evening for last minute room changes.